Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is colestipol. This medicine lowers bad cholesterol, which is also known as 'LDL cholesterol.' 

You should take colestipol exactly as your doctor tells you to. If you take other medicines, you cannot take them at the same time as colestipol. You should take other medicines at least one hour before, or four hours after you take this medicine.  

Colestipol is available as tablets and as dry granules. 
- You should swallow the tablet whole. Do not cut, crush or chew it. You should take each dose with a full glass of water.  
- You should always mix the granules in a full glass of water or other drinks. Or, you can mix the granules with food, like soup or cereal. You should be careful to not leave any granules in the glass or bowl. Remember, you should never take the granules in the dry form.

Most people tolerate this medicine well. A common side effect is constipation. To reduce constipation, you should drink plenty of fluids, and eat foods that are high in fiber. Some people choose to take a stool softener. Side effects that are less common include stomach pain, gas, indigestion and nausea. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects could occur. Tell your doctor if you notice any unusual changes to your body.

For best results with colestipol, be sure to also follow your doctor's advice for diet and exercise.